Premium Cocoa Mix (or Witches Brew on Halloween)

Many years ago (my recipe says 1986), my friend Marjorie shared this recipe in a church cookbook. 

We moved to San Francisco and I left the book boxed up in storage.  One misty, chilly, foggy day, nothing but a steaming cup of hot chocolate would suffice.  When I couldn't find the recipe, and since no other hot chocolate compares to this one, I called Marjorie Long Distance to request the recipe.  She was a bit surprised but kindly repeated the recipe over the phone.  26 years later, it's still our favorite cocoa.

For a church meeting this month, I shared the recipe and served the cocoa as our refreshment.  I calculated the cost of one serving of premium cocoa mix from the market compared to the cost of this recipe.  The home made mix was about half the cost per serving.   It tastes just as good (some ladies declared it even better than premium cocoa). 

Package it up in a cute container and give as a neighbor or teacher gift.  I've made fabric bags, used antique canisters, and even canning jars over the years.  Include a seasonal mug or two.  Tie a sprig of holiday greenery and a pretty ribbon on it and be sure to include the recipe for the mix.  They'll want to replenish their supply when the container is empty.  Some years I've included my homemade marshmallows in the package.  Embellish the mallows with seasonal sugar, colors, and flavoring.  That recipe is coming soon.

Brew up a pot of coca this Halloween.  It'll be a hit with party guests and Trick-or Treaters.

Winter Warm Up

2 cups of instant (dried) milk

¾ cup of Non-Dairy Creamer (such as Coffee Mate)

¾ cup of sifted cocoa

¾ cup of granulated sugar

Mix all ingredients together. Store in an airtight container.

Makes about 10 servings.

To make one serving: Mix 6 oz. of hot water with 1/3 cup of mix.